1. Human Growth and Development Puberty Kalisha Fagan Darnita Nash Brandi Chastain

2. What is puberty?  Puberty is the period when a child changes physically, hormonally, and sexually, and becomes able to reproduce.  Puberty usually occurs in girls around the age of 9 to 16 and in boys around the age of 13 to 15.  However, the age varies from person to person. Some children go through puberty earlier, and some go through puberty later.

3. Physical Changes In Boys Include:  Testicular size, function, and fertility  Pubic hair  Body and facial hair  Voice change and Adam’s Apple  Body shape  Body odor and acne

4. Physical Changes In Girls Include:  Breast development  Pubic hair  Menstruation and fertility  Body shape  Body odor and acne

5. How Does Puberty Affect Kids?  Going through puberty earlier than their other peers can put a lot of pressure on children.  This sense of pressure can lead to body image or self-esteem issues.  They might be confused about what is happening to their bodies and then become unfamiliar with their emotions.  As future teachers, we should be aware of these changes and make sure our students are coping correctly.

6. Essential Skills  Children can ensure proper growth and development (which includes puberty, too) by maintaining a balanced nutritious diet, getting a good nights sleep regularly, and practicing regular amounts of exercise.

7. References  http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/teens/puberty- sexuality/puberty-what-to-expect-when-your-child-goes- through-puberty.html http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/teens/puberty- sexuality/puberty-what-to-expect-when-your-child-goes- through-puberty.html  http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/adolescent/puberty.html http://www.keepkidshealthy.com/adolescent/puberty.html  http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/puberty.htm#wh atisp http://www.med.umich.edu/yourchild/topics/puberty.htm#wh atisp  http://www.livestrong.com/article/186373-how-to-explain- puberty-to-children/ http://www.livestrong.com/article/186373-how-to-explain- puberty-to-children/